Weapon mountable illumination device

ABSTRACT

A weapon mountable illumination device configured to mount to existing firearm mounting rails to provide illumination of potential targets while mitigating problems associated with snagging, and shadow casting. It is an aspect of the present invention to provide a rapidly mountable device to provide increased lighting capability while obviating the need to remove back up iron sights.

CROSS REFERENCE TO REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication 63/271,072 entitled “WEAPON MOUNTABLE ILLUMINATION DEVICE”filed on Oct. 22, 2021. Furthermore, this application is a Continuationin Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/391,405 entitled “WEAPONMOUNTABLE ILLUMINATION DEVICE” filed Aug. 2, 2021, which claims thebenefit of PCT Application PCT/US21/38230 filed on Jun. 21, 2021, whichis a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/906,698entitled “WEAPON MOUNTABLE ILLUMINATION DEVICE” filed on Jun. 19, 2020.The entire contents of the aforementioned applications are incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a weapon mountable illuminationdevice which is intended to provide a modular and mobile lightingsolution which mitigates problems associated with snagging, shadowcasting, imbalance associated with the mounting to a weapon, andoverheating of elements.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the conduct of law enforcement and military operations,weapon-mounted tactical lighting has become mission critical equipmentin most operations wherein such equipment provides a high level of valuein achieving success in a given operation.

Handheld tactical lighting, generally used with pistols, requires theuse of one hand to operate the weapon while the other hand of theoperator is used to illuminate targets or areas of interest beyond themuzzle-end of the weapon.

Weapon-mounted lighting, commonly used with long guns (shotguns, rifles,carbines, and other longer barreled firearms) allows the use of bothhands in operating the weapon while providing illumination to targets orareas of interest beyond the muzzle-end of the weapon. Althoughweapon-mounted lighting is typically used with long guns which requirestwo-handed operation, weapon-mounted lighting has also been adapted foruse on pistols.

Weapon-mounted lighting in weapon centric operations allows anoperator—a commonly used term for personnel involved in militaryoperations—to provide illumination generally in the direction of themuzzle of the weapon while maintaining use of both hands for weaponhandling and other operation related tasks.

Benefits of weapon-mounted lighting typically include: positive targetidentification in low-light situations, disorientation and/or temporaryblinding of targets, or emitting infrared light for the purposes ofillumination of areas in the event the operator is using night-visionenabling equipment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An existing solution surrounding weapon-mounted lighting involves themounting of a traditionally-shaped, cylindrical flashlight to the sideof the weapon. Due to the placement of the flashlight on the side of theweapon, this can result in the casting of a shadow on the opposite sideof the barrel from where the flashlight is mounted. A shadow inlow-light operations can result in a potential target or threat beingobscured from illumination, thus creating a potentially life-threateningsituation for the operator.

A common tactic in efforts to mitigate the casting of a shadow involvesthe mounting of the flashlight as far forward and closer to themuzzle-end of the weapon, such as seen in U.S. Pat. No. 7,941,960 toMatthews, et al. (“Matthews”)—incorporated in its entirety herein forall purposes. Although this decreases the casting of shadows, thisresults in negatively affecting the weapon's weight and balance.Resultantly, the operator's ability to accurately engage targets is alsonegatively affected. Furthermore, the mounting of a flashlight towardthe muzzle-end of a weapon creates a protuberance which can result inthe snagging or catching of the weapon on obstacles including, but notlimited to, communication cords, pistol lanyards, seatbelts, wires, orother cable-like lines present in military and/or law enforcementvehicles, boats, and aircraft. While conducting vehicle-mountedoperations, it is optimal for an operator to be able to exit the vehiclequickly and bring the weapon to bear with zero interference. Prior artillumination devices (i.e. externally attached cylindricalflashlight-shaped devices) serve as a prominent encumbrance to speed andaccuracy. The positioning of a standard external flashlight is such thatthe vehicle seatbelt or harness will likely clear the barrel of the gun,but grab the light fixture, causing not only a delayed exit, but moreimportantly a negative impact to the operator's ability to accuratelyengage threats. Operators have reported incidents of weapon-mountedflashlights catching on obstacles during ship-boarding operations,close-quarters combat operations, room-clearing operations, and duringrappelling operations from buildings or fast-rope operations fromhelicopters. An operator catching their weapon in any operation can posea life-threatening risk. For instance, during a rappelling or fast-ropeoperation, the catching of one's weapon can result in an uncontrolledfall from heights in excess of 40 feet.

Embodiments of the present invention surround a weapon-mountedillumination device providing lighting for an operator in a manner whichdoes not cast shadows and provides streamlined form factor whichprovides snag-free operation due to the form factor in close proximitywith existing aspects of the weapon.

Solutions to the above discussed problems have been proposed involvingthe mounting of a lighting device, such as a flashlight, to a weaponaligned with the muzzle-end of the firearm. The problem with suchsolutions surrounds the percussion and heat associated with the repeatedfiring of the firearm. The percussion and heat adversely affect theperformance of the lighting device, as well as the operation of theweapon. The side-mounting of a flashlight to the forward aspect of aweapon may negatively affect the intended operation of the weapon due toimbalance and result in weapon malfunction.

A rail interface system—commonly referred to as a “rail”, “railintegration system”, “rail accessory system”—is a standardized apparatusof the attachment of accessories to firearms. Rail interface systemscommonly provide a handguard offset surface of a barrel, wherein thehandguard has one or more rails in accordance with MIL-STD-1913, STANAG4694 specifications, or other rail interface systems known to thoseskilled in the art. The rail interface system allows the rapidattachment of accessories to a firearm by sliding the accessory onto arail having undercuts, resulting in a T-shaped rail, and locked intoplace. A commonly used rail interface system for carbine weapons, suchas the M-4, M-16, and AR-15, is commonly referred to as a “PicatinnyRail” although embodiments of the present invention are configured tointerconnect with all rail accessory systems known to those skilled inthe art. Certain rail interface systems provide handguard, configured tomount axially around a barrel of a firearm, having a total of four railsangularly offset at 90-degree increments, resulting in an octagonalprofile wherein alternating surfaces have an accessory rail such that atop surface, bottom surface, left surface, and right surface of thehandguard have accessory rails. It is an aspect of certain embodimentsto provide an illumination device configured to slidably mount to a railinterface system having an octagonal profile. It is an aspect of certainembodiments of the present invention to be slidably mountable to a railintegration system having at least one rail integration system.

It is an aspect of certain embodiments to interconnect with firearmaccessory mounting systems such as those disclosed by U.S. Pat. No.8,925,236 to Mayberry, at al. (“the '236 patent”), U.S. Pat. No.9,239,209 to Mayberry, at al. (“the '209 patent”), and U.S. Pat. No.9,239,210 to Mayberry, at al. (“the '210 patent”), each of which areincorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes. It will beappreciated that the mounting of the present invention disclosed hereinto weapon accessory mounting systems known to those skilled in the art,such as those commonly known as KeyMod® and M-LOK®, are within thespirit and scope of the present invention.

Certain existing technologies, such as U.S. Patent Publication No.2017/0038178 to Pinilla (“Pinilla”), herein incorporated by reference inits entirety for all purposes, propose a solution wherein a lightingdevice is integrated into a rail interface system. Pinilla teaches theincorporation of an illumination device within an internal aspect of arail interface system wherein lighting elements are disposed between therail interface system and the placement of the batteries creating aprotuberance above where a top rail of the rail interface system wouldotherwise be. Furthermore, the removal of the illumination device ofPinilla requires the removal of the rail interface system as opposed tothe removal of the illumination device alone. The close proximity ofelectrical and battery elements to the barrel would result in theexposure of electrical elements and batteries to high heat andpercussion. Furthermore, the protuberance of the battery compartmentnegates the use of the top rail of the rail interface system andprecludes the mounting of certain accessories to the weapon.

It is an aspect of the present invention to provide a weapon-mountedillumination device which is modular and does not limit the mounting ofaccessories to a rail interface system when the illumination device isnot necessary. It is a further aspect of the present invention to allowthe mounting of an illumination device as desired—toward the forward end(muzzle end) of the weapon, or further aft, dependent on the operator'spreference or arm length and other physical body characteristics withoutimpediment to or front existing elements such as back-up iron sights. Itis a further aspect of the present invention to allow the attachment andremoval of an illumination device without requiring the removal of thefront-sight post.

It is an aspect of the present invention that the mounting of anillumination device mounted to a weapon's rail interface system does notinhibit or interfere with the mounting or operational use of traditionalsights such as Backup Iron Sights (BUIS) or other commonly used sightingsystems including, but not limited to products manufactured by:Aimpoint®, ACOG®, EOTECH® or AR-Scopes®.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to maintain thefunctionality of the top rail of a rail interface system when anillumination device is mounted to the weapon's rail interface system.Certain embodiments of the present invention surround the use of a cuffform having an open top aspect wherethrough the top aspect of a firearmis received. This allows an operator to rapidly affix or remove thepresent invention from the firearm without impediment to or from aspectsof the weapon such as backup iron sights, the slide of a semi-automaticpistol, or accessories mounted to the top aspect of the weapon using arail interface system.

Existing solutions, such as Pinilla, teach the use of a wired remoteillumination activation switch which is placed remotely from theillumination device in close proximity to the operator's hands, such asnear the trigger-guard of the weapon. Such switches may result inunintentional activation of the illumination device which mayinadvertently alert a target to the presence of an operator duringcovert operations, or reduce the visual acuity of a fellow operatorresulting in potentially dangerous circumstances.

It is an aspect of the present invention to provide an illuminationdevice wherein activation switches are configured in a manner whichmitigates accidental actuation to prevent the inadvertent turning of theillumination device on or off. Switches of certain embodiments areintegrated into the weapon mountable illumination device to providetactile control of power and alternative functions of the weaponmountable illumination device. Certain embodiments include switches onboth the left side and the right side of the weapon mountableillumination device thereby allowing the ambidextrous functionalityduring operations.

It is an aspect of the present invention to provide a power indicator toan operator in a manner which is seen only by the operator in anon-distracting manner. Certain embodiments comprise a pin-hole sizedblue-light facing rearward such that the blue power indicator isviewable by an operator when the weapon is held in a firing position.

It is an aspect of certain embodiments to provide annular orsemi-annular lighting as opposed to individual beam configurations asfound with a flashlight mounted on the side of a weapon. Annularlighting provides lighting from 360-degrees around the barrel of theweapon and illuminates beyond the muzzle-end of the weapon. As such, anannular lighting solution negates the shadow casting effects of a beamlighting configuration. It will be appreciated that annular lighting,for the purposes of this instant application includes but is not limitedto the use of a continuous annular lighting element, a plurality oflighting elements (such as LEDs) disposes at radial intervalssurrounding the barrel of a weapon, or one or more lighting elementsconfigured to distribute illumination around the barrel of the weapon.

Certain existing technologies, such as U.S. Pat. No. 7,954,273 toRichard Swan (“Swan), U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0122527 to RobertGalli (“Galli”), U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007/0039226 to John Stokes(“Stokes”); and U.S. Pat. No. 9,062,933 to John Allen, et al.(“Allen”)—each herein incorporated by reference in its entirety for allpurposes—attempt to provide lighting forward of an operator's weapon.However, such technologies do not solve shadow-casting associated withthe forward aspect of the weapon Some of such technologies, such asSwan, do not allow the adjustability of the device to permit an operatorto place the lighting device at a desired distance to permit access tothe device, or to allow as use as an ancillary grip, within reach forfunctions such as turning the illumination device on and off.

It is an aspect of the present invention to provide a weapon mountableillumination device which mitigates shadow casting though the use of aplurality of lighting elements configured to provide illuminationforward of a firearm and operator. It will be appreciated that the term“forward” as used herein is not limited to a unidirectional aspect, butall aspects which are forward of the weapon and operator including ahemispherical field of view. It is an aspect of certain embodiments thata plurality of lighting elements work in concert to provide illuminationforward of the firearm in a manner that the light cast provides aharmonized and/or uninterrupted lighting effect.

A further aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention includemultiple functionalities such as, but not limited to: strobing, patternflashing, white light, infrared illumination, colored LED light such asred or green light, and less-lethal functionality such as those taughtby U.S. Pat. No. 6,190,022 to Tocci, et al. (“Tocci”) incorporatedherein in its entirety for all purposes. It is a further aspect ofcertain embodiments to allow the selection of particular modes throughthe use of a selector switch.

It is an aspect of the present invention to allow the operation of alaser independently of a lighting element. It is a further aspect of thepresent invention to allow the selection of a first mode of theoperation of the laser and lighting elements wherein contacting ordepressing the respective switch toggles the laser or lighting elementon until the switch is contacted again. Another aspect of the presentinvention allows the selection of a second mode of the operation of thelaser and lighting elements wherein contacting or depressing therespective switch toggles the laser or lighting element on until therespective switch is released. Yet another aspect of the presentinvention allows the selection of a second mode of the operation of thelaser and lighting elements wherein contacting or depressing therespective switch does not illuminate the laser or lighting elementthereby preventing inadvertent illumination as may be desired inclandestine operations or simply to conserve battery power.

Certain embodiments of the present invention comprise an illuminationdevice mountable to a rail interface system wherein the illuminationdevice is independent of a weapon foregrip and mounted adjacent to thebarrel, while embodiments comprising an integrated foregrip for a weaponare within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Embodiments of the present invention comprise an illumination devicemanufactured from aluminum, durable polymers, composites and/or rubber.It will be appreciated however, that embodiments constructed withalternative materials known to those skilled in the art are within thescope and spirit of the present invention.

It is an aspect of certain embodiments to provide an illumination devicewhich is neutrally buoyant such that when used in water-basedoperations, the illumination device does not affect the buoyancy of theweapon and system of accessories in a positive or negative manner.

Existing solutions such as those taught by Pinilla rely on the operatorengaging the forward aspect of a firearm by the handguard or rail, suchas a Picatinny rail. These handguards and shrouds rely on an operator toengage the forward aspect of the firearm with an upward-turned hand andgripping the handguard or rail. When gripping a handguard, an operatormay find the need to continually readjust their grip of the firearm,wherein these moments in which an operator readjusts their grip mayresult in impaired ability to respond quickly to a threat.

It is an aspect of certain embodiments to provide a finger hold whichextends downward from the forward aspect of the weapon wherein anoperator is able to engage the firearm mounted illumination device withat least one finger to provide further support and stabilization to theforward aspect of the firearm. A finger hold as disclosed hereinprovides a specific location for an operator to engage the forwardaspect of the firearm consistently and repeatedly. When engaged with afinger hold, an operator is able to support the firearm vertically whilepulling the firearm toward themselves to increase support,maneuverability, and move the firearm more quickly. Furthermore, the useof a finger grip interconnected with the firearm mounted illuminationdevice mitigates the need to readjust grip during operations.

These and other advantages will be apparent from the disclosure of theinventions contained herein. The above-described embodiments,objectives, and configurations are neither complete nor exhaustive. Aswill be appreciated, other embodiments of the invention are possibleusing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forthabove or described in detail below. Further, this Summary is neitherintended nor should it be construed as being representative of the fullextent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is setforth in various levels of detail in this Summary, as well as in theattached drawings and the detailed description below, and no limitationas to the scope of the present invention is intended to either theinclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in thisSummary. Additional aspects of the present invention will become morereadily apparent from the detailed description, particularly when takentogether with the drawings, and the claims provided herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A—An exploded perspective view of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device for assembly with a firearm

FIG. 1B—A perspective view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device assembled with a firearm

FIG. 2A—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 2B—A rear view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 3A—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 3B—A front view detail of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device shown in FIG. 3A

FIG. 3C—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device assembled with a firearm

FIG. 4 —A front perspective view of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device

FIG. 5 —A system representation of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device

FIG. 6 —A rear perspective view of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device

FIG. 7A—A top view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 7B—A bottom view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 7C—A left side view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 7D—A right side view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 8A—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 8B—A rear view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 9 —A front perspective view of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device

FIG. 10 —A rear perspective view of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device

FIG. 11A—A left side view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 11B—A right side view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 11C—A top view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device in a locked configuration

FIG. 11D—A bottom view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 12A—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device in a locked configuration

FIG. 12B—A top view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device in a locked configuration

FIG. 13A—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 13B—A rear view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 13C—A sideview of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 13D—A top view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 13E—A bottom view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 13F—A bottom perspective view of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device

FIG. 13G—A top perspective view of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device

FIG. 14A—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 14B—A rear view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 14C—A sideview of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 14D—A top view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 14E—A bottom view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 14F—A bottom perspective exploded view of certain embodiments of aweapon mountable illumination device

FIG. 14G—A top perspective view of certain embodiments of a weaponmountable illumination device

FIG. 14H—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

FIG. 14J—A front view of certain embodiments of a weapon mountableillumination device

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

Certain embodiments of the present invention, such as shown in FIG.1A-FIG. 1B, comprise a weapon mountable illumination device 1000configured to slidably affix to the forward end of a firearm 9000 forproviding illumination toward a forward aspect 9100, or muzzle end, ofthe firearm 9000.

Certain embodiments comprise a weapon mountable illumination device1000, as seen in FIG. 2A-FIG. 2B and FIG. 8A-FIG. 8B, which has a cuffform 1100 wherein the cuff form has a first end 1110, a second end 1120,and a gap 1130 disposed therebetween. The gap 1130 extendslongitudinally between the first open side 1150 and the second open side1160 resulting in an open cuff which extends between a first end 1110and a second end 1120 wherein the cuff less than 360-degrees between theends. The weapon mountable illumination device 1000 comprises a firstopen side 1150, a second open side 1160, and a pathway 1170 therebetween. The gap 1130 of the cuff form is configured to allow themounting to a firearm 9000, now referencing FIG. 1A-FIG. 1B, withoutimpediment to or from existing elements of the firearm such as fixediron sights 9200 or backup iron sights (BUIS), a slide of asemi-automatic pistol, or other aspects, or accessories mounted to a topaspect of a firearm such as those mounted to a rail system.

Certain embodiments of a weapon mountable illumination device 1000, asseen in FIG. 2A-FIG. 2B and FIG. 8A-FIG. 8B, comprise at least onelighting element 1200 configured to shine in a forward direction, whilecertain embodiments comprise a plurality of lighting elements 1200.Further embodiments still comprise a singular lighting elementconfigured to provide annular or semi-annular lighting.

Certain embodiments of the present invention, such as shown in FIG. 3A,comprise a weapon mountable illumination device having a first channel2000 in an internal perimeter 2100 of the cuff form 1100. The channel2000 has an angular offset of 180-degrees from the gap 1130 of the cuffform 1100. The channel 2000 is configured to allow the slidableinterconnection and removal of the weapon mountable illumination device1000 to and from a firearm 9000 (FIG. 1A—FIG. 1B).

In certain embodiments, again referencing FIG. 3A, the cuff form 1100further comprises a set screw 2200 extending from an external perimeter2110 of the cuff form through the internal perimeter of the cuff form.The set screw 2200 is configured to extend radially inward from theinternal perimeter 2100 of the cuff form and engage with the firearm,thereby affixing the weapon mountable illumination device to thefirearm. Certain embodiments within the spirit and scope of the presentinvention comprise a plurality of set screws 2200. It will beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the attachment of a weaponmountable illumination device is not limited to the use of set screws2200. Embodiments comprising elements configured to be threadablyadvanced, slidably advanced, or through the use of spring-loadedelements such as ball detents to engage with a firearm, aspects of arail interface system, or elements thereof are within the spirit andscope of the present invention. It will be further appreciated that theuse of quick-disconnect elements such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.7,823,315 to Webber et al. (“Webber”), U.S. Pat. No. 8,857,097 to Rorick(“Rorick”), U.S. Pat. No. 8,336,247 to Haering (“Haering”), and U.S.Pat. No. 8,397,421 to Ding, et al. (Ding”)—each of which areincorporated herein in its entirety for all purposes, are within thespirit and scope of the present invention.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3A-FIG. 3C, a weapon mountableillumination device 1000 comprises a channel 2000 configured to receivea rail interface system 9300. A rail interface system as disclosedherein refers to MIL-STD-1913, STANAG 4694 specifications, as well asany rail interface system known to those skilled in the art.

In certain embodiments, shown in FIG. 3A-FIG. 3C, a weapon mountableillumination device comprises a channel 2000 having undercut sidewalls2010. It will be appreciated that undercut, as used herein refers to amanufacturing “undercut” resulting in a recessed surface that isinaccessible using a straight tool. In certain embodiments, a channelhaving undercut sidewalls 2010 is characterized by having an opening2020 of a first width 2030, and a second width 2040 located between theopening and the bottom 2050 of the channel, wherein the second width isgreater than the first width.

Certain embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 3A, comprise a plurality ofchannels 2000 angularly offset from each other around the internalperimeter of the cuff form. Certain embodiments comprise three channels2000 angularly offset around the internal perimeter 2100 of the cuffform at intervals of 90-degrees, 180-degrees, and 270-degrees offsetfrom the gap of the cuff form. It will be appreciated that alternateembodiments of the plurality of channels comprising straight walls,walls without undercuts, undercut sidewalls, and embodiments whereinsome channels comprise undercut sidewalls while others do not, arewithin the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Certain embodiments of the present invention, such as shown in FIG. 4and FIG. 9 , comprise a weapon mountable illumination device 1000 havinga plurality of lighting elements 1200 interconnected with a forwardaspect 4000 of the cuff form wherein the lighting elements 1200 areconfigured to shine forward. In certain embodiments four lightingelements are equidistantly radially offset from a longitudinal axis 4100of the pathway and are angularly offset from each other in 90-degreeincrements. In certain embodiments the longitudinal axis 4100 iscentrally located.

Certain embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 4 andFIG. 9 , comprise a weapon mountable illumination device 1000 furthercomprising a laser 4200 configured to emit a beam 4210 of light parallelto a longitudinal axis 4100 of a pathway of the cuff form. The laser asshown in FIG. 4 is useful in visual feedback of on-target aiming. Incertain embodiments the beam 4210 is adjustable to allow for thecorrection of parallax error between the beam and the aimpoint of afirearm for a desired distance.

Certain embodiments of the present invention, shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5and FIG. 9 , comprise a weapon mountable illumination device 1000 whichfurther comprises a power source 5000, a lighting element switch 5010for operating a lighting element 1200, and a laser switch 5020 foroperating a laser 4200 (FIG. 4 )—each with connection to a control unit5100. The power source 5000 typically comprises a battery or pluralityof batteries although alternate forms of power source are within thespirit and scope of the present invention.

Certain embodiments of the present invention, shown in FIG. 5 -FIG. 6and FIG. 10 , comprise a weapon mountable illumination device 1000further comprising a modality switch 5030 having connection with thecontrol unit 5100 wherein the modality switch 5030 allows an operator toselect between operational modes of the lighting elements. The modalityswitch 5030 of certain embodiments comprise a push button wherein eachpress of the button advances the mode to the next mode in a sequence ofselectable modes, while other embodiments comprise a rotary switchwherein each of a plurality of positions selects a particular modeassociated with that position. In certain embodiments, such as shown inFIG. 8B, a second modality switch 5030 provides the ability to switchbetween settings such as a high and low light intensity mode.

Certain embodiments of the present invention, shown in FIG. 6 -FIG. 7A,and FIG. 10 —FIG. 11A for example, comprises at least one batterycompartment 6000 interconnected with the cuff form 1100. In certainembodiments, as shown, a first battery compartment 6000 extends rearwardform the first end 1110 of the cuff form and a second batterycompartment 6000 extends rearward from the second end 1120 of the cuffform. The battery compartment 6000 of certain embodiments is waterproofwhile alternate embodiments comprise a battery compartment which iswater resistant when the battery compartment is closed.

Certain embodiments, shown in FIG. 6 -FIG. 7D and FIG. 10 -FIG. 11D forexample, of the present invention comprise a weapon mountableillumination device 1000 having at least one gusset 6100 interconnectedbetween a battery compartment 6000 and the cuff form 1100. Certainembodiments, as shown comprise a first gusset 6100 interconnectedbetween a first battery compartment 6000 and the cuff form 1100, and asecond gusset 6100 interconnected between a second battery compartment6000 and the cuff form 1100. In certain embodiments the gussets 6100 areswept radially inward to provide a lower profile to reduce snagging. Itwill be appreciated that the gussets as disclosed provide at least oneof the following: added rigidity, lower snagging risk, increased volumeto address buoyancy, added surface area for an operator to place theirhand.

In certain embodiments, seen in FIG. 7C-7D for instance, a first gusset6100 comprises a first lighting element switch 5010 and a first laserswitch 5020, and a second gusset 6100 comprises a second lightingelement switch 5010 switch and a second laser switch 5020, wherein thelighting element switches 5010 switches have identical functionality toeach other, and the second lighting element switches 5020 have identicalfunctionality to each other—thus providing ambidextrous operation of theweapon mountable illumination device. Similarly, embodiments shown inFIG. 11C-FIG. 11D comprise similar functionality surrounding a firstlighting switch 5010 and a second lighting element switch 5010.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, such as shown in FIG.10 -FIG. 11B, a weapon mounted illumination device 1000 furthercomprises a finger hold 7000 interconnected with a surface of the weaponmounted illumination device wherein the finger hold 7000 extendsradially away from an external aspect of the weapon mounted illuminationdevice. As shown, the finger hold 7000 extends radially outward from thebottom aspect 1115 of the cuff form, but is not limited in locationthereto. The finger hold 7000 provides a point of engagement wherein anoperator is able to engage with a finger to further stabilize theforward aspect 9100 (FIG. 1 ) of the firearm. In certain embodiments, arecess 7100 is located adjacent to the finger hold in a forwarddirection from the finger hold 7000 to further enable the operator'sengagement with weapon mounted illumination device and increase the easeof engaging a finger hold in a consistent and repeated manner. Incertain embodiments, the recess 7100 comprises a concave curvature whichis configured for receiving at least one finger of an operator.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 10 andFIG. 11C—FIG. 12B, a weapon mountable illumination device 1000 isconfigured to interconnect with a weapon or weapon accessory having anelongated slot. In certain embodiments, the weapon mountable lightingdevice 1000 comprises an oblong fastener 7500 having a central axis7520, wherein the oblong fastener 7500 comprises an offset 7530 radiallyinward from an internal surface 2100 of the weapon mountableillumination device. The oblong fastener 7500 is configured to beinserted through an elongated slot and then rotated about the centralaxis 7520 of the oblong fastener resulting in the oblong fastener 7500interconnecting the weapon mountable illumination device 1000 to theweapon or weapon accessory. A keyed connector 7510 is interconnectedwith the oblong fastener wherein the keyed connector faces radiallyoutward from an external surface of the weapon mountable illuminationdevice. It will be appreciated that the keyed connector 7510 of certainembodiments comprises a standardized fastener such as a hex-head,torx-head or flat-head connection, however it will be furtherappreciated that any keyed connection is within the spirit and scope ofthe present invention. The oblong fasteners 7500 are typicallyinterconnected to an internal perimeter 2100 of the weapon mountableillumination device and extend radially inward, and are preferablymounted to the internal perimeter 2100 directly opposite or 180-degreesopposed from the gap 1130. Certain embodiments of the present inventioncomprises a first oblong fastener 7500 and a second oblong fastener 7500configured to be inserted through at least one elongated slot of aweapon or weapon accessory wherein the rotation of the oblong fastener7500 results in changing from an unlocked configuration 7600 to a lockedconfiguration 7650 and the interconnection of the weapon mountableillumination device to the weapon or weapon accessory.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, shown in FIG. 13A-FIG.14G, a weapon mountable illumination device 1000 comprises a firstlighting element 1200 and a second lighting element 1200 interconnectedby a web 7700 therebetween which constrains the configuration of thefirst lighting element 1200 in relation to the second lighting element1200. The first side 7710 of the web is configured to interconnect theweapon mountable illumination device 1000 to a forward aspect of afirearm 9000 by interconnecting with a rail interface system 9300. Theweb 7700 as shown, allows for the interconnection of the device to a topaspect, side aspect, or bottom aspect of a rail interface system 9300.In certain embodiments weapon mountable illumination device isconfigured to interconnect with a pistol, while in alternate embodimentsare configured to interconnect with a long gun. The lighting elements1200 include a battery compartment 6000 which extend longitudinallyrearward from the lighting elements 1200. While embodiments shown hereindescribe a battery compartment 6000 extending rearward to provide ahousing for batteries stored therein, alternate embodiments wherein thebattery compartment 6000 is used for alternate purposes are within thespirit and scope of the present invention.

Certain embodiments of a weapon mountable illumination device 1000, forexample as shown in FIG. 13A-FIG. 13G, comprise a first lighting element1200 and second lighting element 1200 interconnected by a web 7700. Theweapon mountable lighting device is configured to interconnect withweapon accessory systems such as KeyMod® and M-Lok® systems whichcomprise an elongated slot for interconnection with. The weaponmountable lighting device 1000 comprises an oblong fastener 7500configured for interconnection with the oblong slot as discussed inrelation to embodiments (shown in FIG. 9 -FIG. 12B) wherein the oblongfastener 7500 extends from the first side 7710 of the web, and the keyedconnector is accessed from the second side 7720 of the web.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 13C-13D for instance, theweapon mountable illumination device 1000 comprises at least a firstactuation switch 7900 on a rearward aspect 1020 of the of theillumination device. The first actuation switch 7900 in certainembodiments is a push-button activated switch wherein each depression ofthe switch activates the lighting elements 1200. In certain embodimentsthe actuation switch is mounted to the rearward aspect 6020 of thebattery compartment. In certain embodiments the weapon mountableillumination device comprises a first modality switch 7910 mounted on alateral aspect 7920 of the illumination device wherein the firstmodality switch 7910 allows the toggling through functionality of thelighting element 1200 such as high intensity, low intensity,momentary-on wherein the lighting element 1200 is on only when theactuation switch 7900 is depressed, strobe function, or other lightingelement functions as desired. In certain embodiments the illuminationdevice 1000 comprises two actuation switches 7900 mounted to therearward aspect 1020 and two modality switches 7910 mounted to eachlateral aspect 7920. While embodiments shown herein comprise a firstlighting element switch 7900 and second lighting element switch 7910,embodiments which comprise either a first lighting element switch 7900or a second lighting element switch 7910 are within the spirit and scopeof the present invention. Furthermore, while the function of the firstlighting element switch 7900 is described herein as activating thelighting elements 1200, alternate embodiments wherein the first lightingelement switch 7900 toggles the modality of the lighting element 1200are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further still,while the function of the second lighting element switch 7910 isdescribed herein as toggling the modality of the function of thelighting elements 1200, alternate embodiments wherein the secondlighting element switch 7910 activates the lighting elements 1200 arewithin the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Certain embodiments of a weapon mountable illumination device 1000, forexample as shown in FIG. 14A-FIG. 14G, comprise a first lighting element1200 and a second lighting element 1200 interconnected by a web 7700.The device 1000 is configured to interconnect with a t-shaped rail suchas a Picatinny Rail or similarly configured rail interface system 9300such as discussed in embodiments such as discussed surroundingembodiments shown in FIG. 1A—FIG. 4 . The web 7700 comprises a channel2000 on a first side 7710 of the web wherein the channel 2000 extendsfrom a forward aspect 2010 of the web to a rearward aspect 2020 of theweb. The channel 2000 is configured to allow the slidableinterconnection and removal of the weapon mountable illumination device1000 to and from a rail interface system 9300 (FIG. 1A). It will beappreciated the embodiments as shown can be mounted to the top, bottom,or sides of a rail interface system 9300. In certain embodiments athrough-hole 7750 extends through the second side 7720 of the web from afirst lateral aspect 7721 of the second side of the web to a secondlateral aspect 7722 of the second side of the web. The through-hole 7750is transverse to the direction 1210 of the lighting element. Thethrough-hole 7750 comprises a medial portion 7750 which is open to thechannel 2000. The through-hole 7750 is configured to receive a pin 7800,such that a portion of the pin 7800 extends into the channel 2000. Thepin 7800 is configured to slide within slots 9350 of the rail interfacesystem when inserted within the through-hole 7750, wherein a medialportion 7805 of the pin engages with a slot 9350. Thus, when the weaponmountable lighting device is affixed to a rail interface system 9300,and the pin 7800 is inserted through the through-hole 7750 to engagewith a slot 9350 (FIG. 1A), the weapon mountable lighting device is in alocked configuration with the rail interface system 9300. In order toslidably remove the weapon mountable lighting device 1000 from the railinterface system 9300, the pin 7800 must first be removed from thethrough-hole 7750.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 13A-FIG. 13F the lightingelements 1200 are aligned with the web 7700. However, in alternateembodiments such as shown in FIG. 14A—FIG. 14I, it may be desired toangle the lighting elements 1200 offset at an angle 7730 from the web7700 so as to provide closer proximity of the lighting elements 1200 tothe firearm and reduce the chances of snagging. In certain embodimentsit may be desired that the angle 7730 is between 15-degrees and20-degrees. However, embodiments having an angle 7730 between 0-degreesand 45-degrees are within the spirit and scope of the present invention.Alternate embodiments wherein the lighting elements are angled away fromthe firearm are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Incertain embodiments the lateral extension 7731 of the lighting elements1200 from centerline 7733 are greater than the thickness 7732 of the web7700. In certain embodiments the diameter 1201 of the lighting elementis greater than the thickness 7733 of the web.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedin detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of thoseembodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to beexpressly understood that such modifications and alterations are withinthe scope and spirit of the present invention. Further, the inventionsdescribed herein are capable of other embodiments and of being practicedor of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to beunderstood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for thepurposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The useof “including,” “comprising,” or “adding” and variations thereof hereinare meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalentsthereof, as well as, additional items.

What is claimed is:
 1. A weapon mountable illumination devicecomprising: a first lighting element, and a second lighting element; thelighting elements are interconnected by a web extending therebetween;and the web comprising a first side having an interconnection mechanism,wherein the interconnection mechanism is configured to interconnect witha firearm, and wherein the lighting elements are configured to shineforward when the weapon mountable illumination device is interconnectedthe firearm.
 2. The illumination device of claim 1, further comprisingan actuation switch disposed on a rearward portion of the illuminationdevice, wherein the actuation of the actuation switch actuates thelighting elements.
 3. The illumination device of claim 2, wherein theactuation switch is disposed on a rearward aspect of a first batterycompartment.
 4. The illumination device of claim 2, further comprising amodality switch disposed on a first lateral aspect of the illuminationdevice, wherein the actuation of the modality switch switches a modalityof the lighting elements.
 5. The illumination device of claim 4, furthercomprising a second actuation switch and a second modality switch. 6.The illumination device of claim 5, wherein the second actuation switchis disposed on the rearward portion of the illumination device, andwherein the second modality switch is disposed on a second lateralaspect of the illumination device.
 7. The illumination device of claim6, wherein the first actuation switch is disposed on a rearward aspectof a first battery compartment, and the second actuation switch isdisposed on a rearward aspect of a second battery compartment.
 8. Theillumination device of claim 6, wherein the lighting elements comprise adiameter which is greater than a thickness of the web.
 9. Theillumination device of claim 8, wherein the lighting elements comprise alateral offset from a centerline of the illumination device wherein thelateral offset is greater than the thickness of the web.
 10. Theillumination device of claim 9, wherein the lighting elements comprisean angular offset from the web.
 11. The illumination device of claim 10,wherein the angular offset is configured wherein the lighting elementsare angled toward the firearm when the illumination device isinterconnected with the firearm.
 12. The weapon mountable illuminationdevice of claim 6, wherein the interconnection mechanism comprises achannel in a first side of the web, wherein the channel extends from aforward aspect of the web to a rearward aspect of the web, and whereinthe channel is configured to slidably mate with a rail interface systemof a firearm.
 13. The weapon mountable lighting device of claim 12,wherein the channel comprises undercut sidewalls.
 14. The weaponmountable lighting device of claim 13, wherein the web comprises asecond side; the second side of the web comprising a through-holeextending from a first lateral aspect of the web, to a second lateralaspect of the web; the through-hole is transverse to the channel; andthe through-hole comprises a medial portion open to the channel, whereinthe through-hole is configured to receive a pin therethrough, andwherein when the channel is slidably mated with a rail interface systemof a firearm, and a pin is inserted through the through-hole, a medialportion of the pin engages with a slot of the rail interface systemplaces the weapon mountable illumination device into a lockedconfiguration with the rail interface system.
 15. The weapon mountableillumination device of claim 6, comprising a first oblong fastenerinterconnected with the first side of the web, and the first oblongfastener is configured to interconnect with an elongated slot of afirearm; the first oblong fastener comprising a central axis, and akeyed connector located on the second side of the web, wherein theinsertion of the first oblong fastener through the elongated slot, androtating the first oblong fastener about the central axis by rotatingthe keyed connector thereby interconnects the weapon mountableillumination device to the firearm in a locked configuration.
 16. Theweapon mountable illumination device of claim 1, further comprising asecond oblong fastener.